500 Startups provides early-stage companies with funding of up to $250K via seed investments, a startup accelerator program, and unique events like SmashSummit and GeeksOnaPlane. The group has over 160 experienced startup mentors around the world, a state-of-the-art 10,000 sq ft working space in the heart of Silicon Valley, and a vibrant community of startup founders. Selected areas of interest include financial services & e-commerce, search/social/mobile platforms, personal & business productivity, education & language, family & healthcare, and web infrastructure. 500 Startups closed a $44.1 million second fund (October of 2013) that will focus on backing seed and accelerator companies. The new fund is a 50% boost from the firm's $29.4 million first fund. 500 Startup will invest about 75% of this fund's money domestically and 25% abroad. 500 Startups invests $125k in exchange for 5%. 500 Startups charges a $25k fee for participation in the Accelerator Program.